Salt Creek Beach Park, Orange County

As you pass by a high-end residential area and an accompanying Ritz Carlton on your way to Salt Creek Beach Park, your anticipation builds by the minute. After crossing an ocean-theme overpass, with no disappointment the beach park opens up with a panoramic view: a lush bluff park, and one mile of secluded beach exposed to the rhythm of the Pacific. Looking back from the beach, extravagant homes and a resort on a well-manicured bluff form an equally admirable view. Public access to this treasure, however, hasn't always come naturally. Thank William Merritt Wilcoxen, who diligently fought for the public and is honored today by a pristine plaque in the park. – Hoiyin Ip